Course Description
This competency unit encompasses the expertise and know-how essential for recognizing and documenting signs of diseases and pests that deviate from the usual occurrences in daily agricultural operations. This unit’s execution is typically entrusted to individuals who maintain regular contact with plants or animals, often as part of their routine animal or plant husbandry responsibilities. It pertains to those engaged in a multitude of production environments, wherein they operate under loose supervision, shouldering responsibility for their own duties, along with limited oversight of others. They are adept at devising solutions and effectively conveying responses to an array of anticipated issues.
Course Outcome
AHCBIO301 – Identify and report signs of unusual disease or pest
(Unit Release 1 – 24/Dec/2020)
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and report signs of diseases and pests that are not commonly found during day-to-day work. The unit is typically performed by those who have daily contact with plants or animals and is carried out in conjunction with routine animal or plant husbandry tasks.
The unit applies to individuals who work in a range of production environments under broad direction and take responsibility for their own work including limited responsibility for the work of others. They provide and communicate solutions to a range of predictable problems.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Entry Requirements
There are no pre-requisites for this course however students will need to meet the following entry requirements:
- AQF level II written and spoken English;
- Numeracy skills to meet the Foundation skills required for this unit of competency;
- Completion of a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment;
- Relevant general knowledge and practical skills gained through vocational experience; and
- Access to a computer (device) and internet to complete the online training component.
Training Duration and Schedule
Students complete preliminary online learning in their own time and location prior to attendance on-site. The practical component is delivered over several days depending on the facilities and equipment available and specific learning outcomes. Please contact Orion Training for more information on the duration and schedule of the course
Training Venue and Delivery Mode
Students complete work-related training and assessment activities in an appropriate training facility using a face a face approach with their trainer.
The courses are delivered throughout regions of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Courses may take place at professional facilities where the required facilities and equipment are in place and available.
Student candidates will be offered a place in the nearest course to their locality or in their preferred location. Confirmation of delivery location will be provided via email.
Assessment
To demonstrate competency in this unit, the candidate must provide evidence on two occasions the individual has;
- identified signs of unusual disease or pest
- sought advice from supervisors or professionals
- notified supervisor
- implemented biosecurity measures according to workplace procedures.
Training Cost
Course fees are structured based on the facility where the course is delivered. Please contact Orion for more information on fees in your location. Fees will be invoiced in advance and must be paid by the agreed party prior to the commencement of the course. Please refer to Orion Student Handbook for further information about payment terms, refunds and complaints and appeals policies.
Course Materials and Equipment
To complete the preliminary online activities, Students will need access to a computer and reliable internet. On-site training incorporates a comprehensive theoretical component. Orion will provide Students with learning and assessment materials to complete the theory and the written final assessment requirements.
Orion will provide all necessary training facilities and equipment to undertake the mandatory practical training and assessment activities
Ordinarily, Students are not required to provide any materials or equipment in order to undertake training and assessment. However, where a training venue stipulates a need for Students to bring a specific item, Students will be notified prior to the scheduled start date.

